How vaginal imagery in Metroid Prime 4 redefines Samus — and why it matters for shooters

After almost 20 years of anticipation, the arrival of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond last December brought an unexpected topic to the table: vulvas. 

Early into Samus’ arrival on planet Viewros, she comes face-to-face with a series of doors and towers which bear a striking resemblance to vaginas. Players subsequently flooded social media with reactions to this yonic architecture. Viral clips and videos showcased archways and elevators which resemble vulvas in early parts of the game — things players see within the first hour or two. They just keep coming, too — this symbolism persists through the game’s climax. Other writers even covered it; “Metroid Prime 4 Players Are Discovering The Game Is Full Of Vagina Doors,” wrote Kotaku’s Zack Zwiezen. 

But this imagery is far from simple shock value. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond’s yonic symbolism enhances player curiosity, making Viewros an erotic element to the player — something they are compelled to open and explore with care. It’s a stark contrast to how similar imagery has been employed in other science fiction games. Here, it serves as a subversion of classic immersive shooter themes of colonization and power. This imagery, and its narrative significance, positions Samus as a maternal custodian to fallen civilizations.